FORT MACMURRAY – Crimebeat – On June 21, 2012, at approximately 7:45PM, Wood Buffalo Integrated Traffic Services caught up with a motorcycle rider traveling at 279 km/h on Highway 63 north of Fort McMurray.
Given the severity of the speeding infraction the driver, 33 year-old James Whitney of Fort McMurray, was arrested on scene.
The accused has been charged with Dangerous Operation of a Motor Vehicle, and was also served several provincial violation tickets. The driver has been released from custody and is expected to appear in court on August 15, 2012.
This incident did not result in injury or death, but could very well have had tragic consequences. A motorcyclist involved in a collision lacks the protection of an enclosed vehicle, so they are more likely to sustain serious injuries.
Pursuant to the Alberta Traffic Safety Plan Calendar, the month of July will see even more enforcement and education as it pertains to motorcycle safety. RCMP are reminding motorcyclists that showing-off and speeding are dangerous and do not pay off.